Ormond Building, Ormond Quay Upper, Dublin 7, Ireland Open 24 Hours – Mon to Sun

Car Accident Claims in Ireland

Expert legal representation for road traffic accident victims. Drivers, passengers, cyclists and pedestrians — we fight for your maximum compensation.

Time Limit: Personal injury claims arising from car accidents in Ireland must generally be submitted within 2 years from the date of the accident. Don't delay — contact us today for a free consultation.

What Are Car Accident Claims?

A car accident claim is a legal process by which an injured person seeks financial compensation from the party responsible for a road traffic collision. In Ireland, most road traffic injury claims must be submitted to the Injuries Resolution Board (IRB) before court proceedings can commence — with the exception of medical negligence claims.

Whether you were a driver, front or rear-seat passenger, cyclist, motorcyclist, or pedestrian, if you have been injured in a road traffic accident that was not your fault, you may be entitled to claim compensation for your injuries, lost earnings, and out-of-pocket expenses.

Who Can Make a Car Accident Claim?

  • Drivers injured in a collision caused by another driver
  • Passengers injured in any vehicle — private car, taxi, bus, or van
  • Cyclists struck by a motor vehicle on Irish roads
  • Pedestrians hit by a vehicle on a road, footpath, or car park
  • Motorcyclists injured through another driver's negligence
  • Victims of uninsured or hit-and-run drivers (via the MIBI)

The Car Accident Claims Process in Ireland

The process for making a road traffic accident claim involves several key stages. Our experienced solicitors will manage every step on your behalf:

1

Report & Attend Medical Assessment

Report the accident to An Garda Síochána and attend a medical professional promptly to document your injuries.

2

Gather Evidence

Collect dashcam footage, CCTV, photographs, witness details, and the third party's insurance information.

3

File with the Injuries Resolution Board

Your solicitor prepares and files the IRB application, pausing the 2-year limitation period.

4

Settlement or Court

We negotiate the best possible settlement. If needed, we will represent you robustly in the Irish courts.

How Much Compensation Can I Claim?

Compensation amounts depend on the nature and severity of your injuries, the duration of recovery, and your financial losses. Awards are guided by the Judicial Council Personal Injuries Guidelines.

Injury TypeTypical Compensation Range
Minor whiplash (full recovery under 1 year)~€8,200
Moderate back/neck injury with physiotherapy€20,000 – €28,000
Serious shoulder injury with lasting impairment€45,000 – €60,000
Psychological trauma following severe collision€18,000 – €30,000
Pedestrian moderate soft tissue injury€15,000 – €35,000

Note: These are general estimates only. Your actual compensation will depend on the specific facts of your case and the medical evidence available.

Claiming as a Passenger in a Car Accident

As a passenger in a road traffic accident, you are almost always considered an innocent party. You can claim against the at-fault driver's insurer — even if the driver was a family member or friend. If multiple drivers were at fault, claims can be made against both. Read more about passenger car accident claims in Ireland.

What If the Driver Was Uninsured or Fled the Scene?

If the driver responsible for your accident was uninsured or untraced, your claim can be made through the Motor Insurers' Bureau of Ireland (MIBI). It is critical to report the incident to An Garda Síochána immediately and preserve any available CCTV or dashcam footage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a solicitor to make a car accident claim?

While you are not legally required to use a solicitor, having an experienced injury lawyer on your side significantly improves your chances of maximising your compensation. We handle all the paperwork, negotiations, and court proceedings on your behalf.

What is the time limit for a car accident claim in Ireland?

The standard limitation period is 2 years minus one day from the date of the accident. This clock is paused when a valid application is filed with the Injuries Resolution Board. For claimants under 18, the period generally runs from their 18th birthday.

Will my case go to court?

Most car accident claims are settled through the IRB process or direct negotiation with insurers without going to court. However, where a fair settlement cannot be reached, we will represent you fully in the courts.

What if I was partly to blame for the accident?

You may still be entitled to claim compensation under the principle of contributory negligence. Your award will be reduced by the percentage of fault attributed to you. Not wearing a seatbelt, for example, may result in a percentage reduction to your award.

Ready to Make Your Car Accident Claim?

Our specialist road traffic accident solicitors are available 24/7. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation. We operate on a strict No Win, No Fee basis.

 Get Free Legal Advice  353 1 903 6407